Willie L. Johnson

Son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather - a man who loved his family and was well-loved.

Willie Lee Johnson, born on August 30, 1940, in Lancaster, South Carolina, was the eldest of three siblings. Born to Mamie Duncan and Dundye Johnson, he was lovingly raised by his aunt, Elizabeth Crockett. After graduating from Lancaster High School, Willie moved to Richmond, Va, where he worked as a construction worker and butcher. He took great pride in his construction work, frequently sharing stories with his grandchildren about the community projects he contributed to, notably the construction of Kings Dominion and Busch Gardens.

On June 15, 1963, he married Sally Wyche and was a devoted father to eight children and a loving grandfather who cherished an annual tradition of taking his grandchildren to the circus. Willie was passionate about sports, especially baseball, and was a die-hard Washington Redskins fan (he refused to call them the Commanders). His passion for baseball led him to create an undefeated community team with his own children. He spent his Saturdays in his recliner, calling all his children and grandchildren to say, "This is your Grand-daddy, I just want to hear your voice".

Willie loved the Lord and was a member of Gates of Faith Ministries until he fell ill. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mamie Duncan and Dundye Johnson; his devoted aunt, Elizabeth Crockett; his wife, Sally Johnson, with whom he shared 51 years; and his son Willie Wyche.

He is survived by two sisters, Debera Johnson and Kealsy Johnson; two sons, Danny Cunningham (Maranda) and Edward Watson; and five daughters: Arletha Lewis, Tribbie McCoy (Lonnie), Frances Kimble, Darlene Harris (Linwood), and Sheila Scott. He also leaves behind 25 grandchildren, 51 great-grandchildren, and 25 great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.